Cirrhosis
Frequently Asked Questions
None Available At This Time
Description
Cirrhosis is a condition in which the liver malfunctions due to chronic injury, and scar tissue replaces healthy liver tissue.
There are multiple possible causes of cirrhosis. Examples include alcohol-related liver disease, hepatitis C, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), hepatitis, and some inherited diseases.
Many people with cirrhosis have no early symptoms. As the disease progresses, symptoms may include weakness, fatigue, nausea, and abdominal pain.
Cirrhosis treatments try to stop the progression of scar tissue and further complications. Treatments may include the avoidance of alcohol and drugs, and nutrition therapy.
(Image used by permission of the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health.)
Sources of Additional Information
- The American College of Gastroenterology
- Liver Cirrhosis
- (An overview of the symptoms, diagnosis, complications, and treatments for cirrhosis.)
- American Gastroenterological Association
- Understanding Cirrhosis of the Liver
- (An overview of the treatment, causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and complications of cirrhosis.)
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearhouse
- Cirrhosis
- (An overview of cirrhosis, its causes, symptoms, complications, diagnosis, and treatment.)
Free Pamphlet from NDDIC: Cirrhosis
